Rutte: We will defend every inch of NATO territory

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has said that the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones on Wednesday, whether intentional or not, is reckless and dangerous. 

"To Putin, my message is clear: stop the war in Ukraine, stop the escalation of the war, which he is now essentially waging on innocent civilians and civilian infrastructure, and stop the violation of allied airspace. Know that we are ready, that we are vigilant and that we will defend every inch of NATO territory," Rutte said in his response.

He said he considered last night's response "very successful."

"We always have to make sure we are one step ahead, but I think last night showed that we are able to defend every inch of NATO territory, including, of course, its airspace," Rutte added.